How to Find an Editor
for Your Book
By Mary Kole
Mary Kole is a former literary agent, freelance editor, writing teacher, author of Writing Irresistible Kidlit, and IP developer for major publishers, with over a decade in the publishing industry.
Once you have a completed draft, you’ve set it aside for a time, and done all the self-editing you can, the thought of how to find an editor for your book might cross your mind. There are a million editors online, and each of them works hard to seem impressive. How to find an editor for your book is a frequently asked question, but there isn’t just one answer. If you want to know how to find an editor for your book, you will need to do some legwork.
How to Find an Editor For Your Book: Ask Questions!
Before you hire a book editor, it’s wise to ask some questions. Here’s a list to consider:
1. What’s your background?
Ideally, this will already be clear from the potential editor’s website when you research how to find an editor for your book. It’s always good to make sure the potential editor’s qualifications and experience match what you need.
2. Are you adept at my kind of book?
Not every editor is an expert in every genre or category of manuscript. If you’re unsure, don’t be afraid to ask. If your chosen editor doesn’t have experience with the kind of book you’re writing, it might make sense to look for someone else. You don’t want them learning on the job with your manuscript. If they do, they’re likely better suited to help you with relevant feedback and writing notes.
3. Is an introductory call or a free edit sample available?
Some editors offer sample edits or onboarding phone calls, and some do not. I give introductory calls and sample edits to potential Full Manuscript Edit customers only. This type of edit is my most comprehensive service, so I want clients to be confident that we’re a fit. But a sample of a picture book edit? Even if I did a page, that would be like giving away 25-50% of the manuscript on spec. My Picture Book Edit customers rely on my experience, reviews, and references from past clients. Each editor might have different terms, though, so don’t be afraid to ask if you’re wondering how to find an editor for your manuscript.
4. Can you connect me with a reference?
An editor who takes pride in their work should not have any problem connecting you to past customers who can share their experiences. I'm always happy to do this. If an editor won’t give you contact information for at least one past client, there could only be two explanations: either their services were unsatisfactory, or they don't have any past clients.
5. Would you prefer to communicate over the phone or through writing?
Before hiring a freelance book editor, ask yourself how you like to communicate. Do you want to be able to speak with a potential editor on the phone? Or would you rather receive feedback exclusively in writing? How about a mix of both?
While I offer phone services, most of my work takes place in writing. I prefer to write as I can think more clearly this way. This also ensures that my clients have a written record of notes they can refer back to when they revise or do self-editing. If phone support is an absolute requirement, look for an editor who offers this service. It is important to take into account your own communication preferences in how to find an editor for your book.
6. What services do you offer? How long does it take for you to complete them?
Your editor should be able to provide a detailed explanation for which services are included in each scope of work—and which aren't. For example, all of my written edits include feedback on the query letter. Very few of my services include a phone call. An experienced book editor should be able to clearly outline what is included in each service, so there are no surprises or disappointments when that service is completed. They should also be able to provide a turnaround deadline. If an editor isn't responding promptly or they are being vague about their services, this could be a sign that things will go awry further down the line.
7. Is revision reading included?
Keep in mind that some editors may include a review of revised material in the scope of service, while others will charge an additional fee for revision reads. It's important to understand exactly what you'll get for your money so that you can set your expectations of how to find an editor for your book.
8. What about follow-up questions?
It seems like common sense that editors should be willing to go over their notes and reply to any queries that arise once an edit is completed. How does the editor you're considering prefer to handle such inquiries? Ask the editor how they usually work with follow-up questions. It helps both the editor and the client to set clear expectations when you’re wondering how to find an editor for your book.
9. Do you have a contract?
Your potential book editor should have a legally binding written agreement that outlines the scope of their work, the details of your arrangement, and includes any related confidential or legal points. (Be sure not to sign over any rights to your work—if someone is asking for rights, this is a publishing scam and you should walk away immediately.)
10. Will you provide advice on what comes next?
Some editors are happy to talk through the submission process or self-publishing strategy, but some are not. If you’re looking to revise your draft and submit it to literary agents or publishers eventually, does the editor provide guidance for next steps? As a former literary agent, I can offer insider knowledge as part of my services at no extra charge. I am always willing to consult on next steps, submission requirements, and other essential career advice for writers. Is this an important part of how to find an editor for your book? Only you can decide.
How to Find an Editor for Your Book: You’ve Found One!
Send me an inquiry for book editing services, below! Now that you’re equipped with some information and a list of important questions, you don’t need to worry about how to find an editor for your book. If you’ve found this article helpful, drop me a line and let’s connect on your project.
For those eagle-eyed readers who are wondering just what kind of editor would write an article with the clunky phrasing of “how to find an editor for your book” over and over on her website, I applaud you for noticing that this reads awkwardly. Please note that I picked this keyword phrase on purpose, as part of my SEO (search engine optimization) strategy. If you’re curious about writer marketing techniques, check out Good Story Marketing.
Click here to purchase Writing Irresistible Kidlit, my book on fiction craft for MG and YA novels, out from Writer's Digest Books. This will show you my writing craft philosophy and give you lots of valuable advice, including tips for the novel revision process and self-editing. There are over 35 example novels cited and discussed throughout. It’s a valuable resource for any writer’s toolkit.
Click here to purchase Successful Query Letters, my book on query letters, including over forty examples with comprehensive notes on each one. There’s a ton of submission advice, best practices, and insider information in these pages, and you’ll really enjoy seeing what other writers are doing in the slush.